Wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD) risk factors

Age is the single greatest risk factor. The chance of developing AMD increases as a person ages

Genetics may put you at a higher risk, especially if immediate family members have AMD

AMD in one eye increases the risk of developing AMD in the other eye

Smoking can double the risk of developing AMD

Obesity increases the progression of early AMD to advanced AMD

High blood pressure may increase the risk of developing AMD

Women are at slightly higher risk than men

Exposure to UV rays

Ethnicity, Caucasian individuals are more likely to develop AMD than any other ethnic group

Talk to your doctor and get regular check-ups if you have any of these risk factors for wAMD

Talk to your doctor and get regular check-ups if you have any of these risk factors for wAMD

Description: Pictures are drawn as follows: an older man with a birthday cake; a family tree; a world map with some countries highlighted where Caucasians typically live; a smoking cigarette; the outline of an obese person; a heart showing signs of disease; and a blood pressure monitor showing a high reading.

Narration: Factors that may increase the risk of wet AMD include age, a family history of macular degeneration, ethnicity - wet AMD is more common in Caucasians, smoking, obesity, heart disease and high blood pressure.

Tips for living with wAMD

Tips for living with wAMD

Reducing glare

When indoors, cover the tops of tables or other shiny surfaces. Yellow clip-on glasses can help as well. When outdoors, dark plum or amber glasses and visors can help.

Decrease your risk

What can you do to decrease your risk of developing wAMD?

Quit smoking

Maintain a healthy weight

Exercise regularly to help maintain a healthy blood pressure. Always talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise program

Maintain your weight with a low-fat diet that includes leafy, dark green vegetables, fruits, and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids

Take dietary supplements with antioxidants and zinc, which have been shown to reduce the risk of developing wAMD. Talk to your doctor before taking dietary supplements, as they may not be right for you

Protect your eyes from UV rays by limiting your time in the sun or wearing sunglasses or hats that shade your eyes

Talk to your doctor and get regular check-ups if you have any of the risk factors for AMD

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